generate controversy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generate controversy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions, statements, or events that provoke public disagreement or debate. Example: "The politician's remarks were intended to generate controversy and draw attention to his campaign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And it can generate controversy.

The New York Times

Rodriguez tends to generate controversy.

The New York Times - Sports

Its size, location, cost and form continue to generate controversy.

The New York Times

Allen's blessed ability to generate controversy has not deserted her.

The Guardian - Music

Rather than generate controversy, the "30 for 30" films recycle it.

The New York Times - Arts

In fact, the best way to generate controversy is by sending a record to Bruno Brookes.

The Guardian - Arts

Both generate controversy about whether they are more derivative than original.

The New York Times - Arts

All three are experienced lawyers who would be unlikely to generate controversy individually.

The New York Times

A festival flourishes if it can generate controversy as well as celebration.

Independent

The tests could generate controversy if they led to more abortions.

The New York Times - Health

Mr. DeMint does not merely generate controversy; he seems to seek it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generate controversy" when you want to emphasize the creation or production of a contentious situation. It's suitable for describing actions, policies, or statements that lead to public disagreement.

Common error

While "generate controversy" is widely understood, consider using more nuanced or informal alternatives like "stir up trouble" or "raise hackles" in casual settings. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generate controversy" functions primarily as a verb phrase. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it describes the act of causing or producing a state of public disagreement or dispute. It's often used to analyze the potential impact of actions or statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generate controversy" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes the act of creating or provoking public disagreement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, often to analyze or predict the impact of actions, statements, or policies. While suitable for neutral and formal settings, consider using more nuanced or informal alternatives in casual contexts. Phrases like "spark controversy", "trigger controversy", and "create a stir" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in emphasis. Understanding these nuances can enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generate debate

This alternative focuses on the creation of discussion, which is a consequence of controversy.

spark controversy

Replaces "generate" with "spark", emphasizing the sudden ignition of a controversial situation.

trigger controversy

Similar to "spark controversy", but implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where something sets off the controversy.

breed contention

Emphasizes that the controversy arises organically from an action or situation.

provoke disagreement

This phrase is a more neutral and formal way to express the same idea, focusing on the act of causing disagreement.

foment discord

A more formal and less common way of saying "generate controversy", implying the encouragement of conflict.

incite opposition

Focuses on provoking resistance or disapproval, a common result of controversy.

create a stir

This alternative is more informal, implying a disturbance or excitement rather than a full-blown controversy.

raise hackles

A more figurative way to express causing annoyance or anger, often leading to controversy.

stir up trouble

This alternative is more colloquial and suggests intentional disruption or conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "generate controversy" in a sentence?

You can use "generate controversy" to describe actions or statements that cause public disagreement. For example, "The politician's proposal is likely to "generate controversy"".

What are some alternatives to "generate controversy"?

Some alternatives include "spark controversy", "trigger controversy", or "create a stir", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "generate controversy" or "cause controversy"?

"Generate controversy" and "cause controversy" are both grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Generate" suggests a more active creation of controversy, while "cause" is a more general term. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "generate controversy" and "generate debate"?

"Generate controversy" implies a strong disagreement or dispute, while "generate debate" suggests a more formal and potentially constructive discussion. Controversy often involves strong emotions and conflicting viewpoints, while debate implies a more reasoned exchange of ideas.